Babylon Fire near Price now 100% contained

PRICE, Utah ( ABC4 ) — The Babylon Fire — which was first reported on July 5 — was declared 100% contained on Tuesday, July 16, after reaching a size of 200 acres.

“Containment refers to the perimeter of the fire, meaning fire managers are confident that the fire will no longer see growth,” the U.S. Forest Service said in a press release Tuesday. “However, there continues to be pockets of smoldering material within the interior.”

The Babylon Fire was determined to be started by natural causes, according to the Utah Wildfire Dashboard . Crews reviewed conditions and weather to contain the fire “within a determined acreage that could benefit from a natural disturbance such as fire,” according to the release.

Crews let the fire reach the “planned objective acreage” before working to suppress the fire. The firefighting efforts were assisted by rain and cooler temperatures, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

The Babylon Fire was located near Steamboat Point, and while there were no fire restrictions in place in the Manti-La Sal National Forest, officials said dry conditions and increased temperatures will remain in the area.

“As a reminder, practice appropriate fire safety measures while traveling and recreating outdoors,” the release said.

While the fire is now considered completely contained, officials said crews will remain at the scene to monitor the fire and cool hotspots. As a result, there still may be visible smoke, but Utahns have been asked to not report it.

The public has also been asked to avoid the areas affected by the fire to maintain safety for the public and for firefighters.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.